auténtica
“auténtica” means “genuine” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
genuine, real
Also: original, verified
📝 In Action
Esta joya es auténtica, no es una imitación.
A2This jewel is genuine, it's not an imitation.
Queremos probar comida mexicana auténtica en el viaje.
B1We want to try real/authentic Mexican food on the trip.
La emoción que sentí fue auténtica.
B2The emotion I felt was genuine.
sincere, true to oneself
Also: unaffected
📝 In Action
Su personalidad es muy auténtica, siempre dice lo que piensa.
B2Her personality is very sincere/true to herself; she always says what she thinks.
La escritora tiene una voz narrativa auténtica que atrae al lector.
C1The writer has a genuine narrative voice that attracts the reader.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "auténtica" in Spanish:
unaffected→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: auténtica
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine adjective 'auténtica'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *authenticus*, which itself originated from the Ancient Greek word *authentikós*, meaning 'of one's own hand' or 'original.' The core idea has always been about something being the true source.
First recorded: 15th century (via Old Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'auténtica' and 'auténtico'?
They mean the exact same thing (genuine/real), but 'auténtica' is the feminine form used when describing feminine nouns (like *mesa*, *mujer*), while 'auténtico' is the masculine form used for masculine nouns (like *libro*, *hombre*).
Can 'auténtica' be used as a noun?
No, 'auténtica' is an adjective. However, you can use it to refer to a genuine thing when the noun is implied, such as saying 'Esta es la auténtica' (This is the genuine one), assuming everyone knows you are talking about 'la joya' (the jewel).